"Brother, Turn to Me!" (Book XI: Brother Ivan Fyodorovich, facing p.468) 1949

Fritz Eichenberg made this engraving to illustrate a scene from Dostoyevsky’s novel "The Brothers Karamazov." Eichenberg was a German-American artist who fled Nazi Germany in the 1930s. He made a name for himself illustrating works of classic literature that explored profound social and ethical themes. Here, the harsh and angular lines reflect the psychological turmoil of Dostoyevsky’s characters. The exaggerated shadows evoke a sense of foreboding and moral uncertainty. Note how the oppressive architecture of the city seems to close in on the figures, mirroring their internal conflicts. The light post suggests a moment of illumination or potential redemption, while the fleeing figure emphasizes the sense of alienation. To fully understand this image, it’s helpful to look into the history of literary illustration and the socio-political context of Eichenberg’s life. What can it tell us about the role of art in engaging with complex ideas? Exploring these avenues enriches our appreciation.